Weary Willie Day

Weary Willie Day is on December 9th in the United States—a special day to celebrate the clown who struggled to gain recognition.

History

Weary Willie was created by circus performer Emmett Kelly, inspired by encounters with hobos during the Great Depression. His clown’s sad expression—complete with an inverted smile—initially faced resistance from circus managers, who preferred more upbeat acts. However, Willie’s downtrodden persona resonated with audiences in hard times, and he became an icon of resilience. Emmett Kelly portrayed Willie until his death, and his son carried on the legacy for many years.

Interesting Facts

• The term “clown” entered American English in the 16th century, originally meaning “boor” or “ruffian.”
• In 2016, a wave of eerie clown sightings swept the US, sparking widespread “coulrophobia” or fear of clowns.
• Joseph Grimaldi, an English performer active in the early 1800s, is often hailed as the first modern clown.
• Traditional whiteface makeup helps exaggerate facial expressions for audiences under the big top.
• Pennywise the Dancing Clown, from Stephen King’s novel, often tops polls as the scariest clown.
• Studies suggest up to one in three people experience some degree of Coulrophobia.

How to Take Part

Attend a circus performance that features a clown act and observe the artistry behind the laughter. Show appreciation by bringing flowers or a small gift to the performer. You can also watch classic films or documentaries about circus clowns to learn more about their craft.

When is Weary Willie Day in 2025?

Weary Willie Day is observed on December 9 each year.

Observations